Fringe Item Number: Ac213 d-e from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Pair of brown fringed dance bands. Each fringe is made of brown strands knotted around a twisted cord. The ends of the cord are used as ties.

History Of Use

Witch costume used in ritual festivals celebrated in the form of dance plays. Only initiated males can participate. It is used to invoke ancestral spirits, gods, and visitors from the world of the dead. The dance plays are held at night to further disguise performers. The dances serve to illustrate roles of certain individuals in society. Although, today they have lost some religious impact, they are still important performances.

Narrative

The costume has been used.

Cultural Context

ceremonial; ritual